“War is so unjust and ugly that all who wage it must try to stifle the voice of conscience within themselves.”
- September 9, 1828 – November 20, 1910
- Born in Russia
- Writer, philosopher
- Wrote masterpieces such as “War and Peace,” “Anna Karenina,” and “Ivan the Fool,” and had a major impact not only on literature but also on politics and society.
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Quote
“War is so unjust and ugly that all who wage it must try to stifle the voice of conscience within themselves.”
Explanation
In this powerful quote, Leo Tolstoy condemns the inherent immorality of war and the psychological toll it takes on those involved. He suggests that war, in its brutality and injustice, forces individuals to suppress their conscience in order to participate in or justify the violence. Tolstoy, a pacifist, believed that killing, destruction, and the suffering caused by war are morally indefensible, and that those who engage in war must silence the inner moral compass that recognizes its cruelty. This insight reflects Tolstoy’s broader belief that violence is incompatible with human dignity and moral integrity.
This sentiment remains strikingly relevant today, especially in light of ongoing conflicts worldwide. The psychological and emotional toll on soldiers and the wider population is often ignored, as many are conditioned to view war through a lens of nationalism, duty, or propaganda. Tolstoy’s words challenge this, urging a recognition of the moral cost of war and its tendency to dehumanize individuals. The concept of stifling one’s conscience can be seen in modern military actions, where soldiers, under extreme pressure, may justify their actions despite the moral conflict they may feel.
Tolstoy’s criticism of war is also rooted in his personal experiences and his deep moral convictions. In his later years, he became an advocate for nonviolent resistance, following in the footsteps of figures like Gandhi. His opposition to war was not just theoretical, but also a central theme in his own life and writings. Through works like War and Peace, Tolstoy explored the devastating impact of war on both individuals and society, showing how the pursuit of power and glory often leads to suffering and the loss of moral clarity. This quote serves as a sobering reminder of the need to listen to one’s conscience, especially in the face of violence and injustice.
